Steering Column Controller Fixation via Protrusion Crushing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing steering apparatuses face challenges in securing a stable fixed-state for the accommodation case due to insufficient holding strength, particularly when using engagement pieces or screw fixation, which can lead to displacement and tilting of the controller.
Innovation Solution
A steering apparatus design featuring engagement protrusions on the steering column and a fitting portion with a crushing margin in the accommodation case, allowing for secure fixation by bringing the protrusions and fitting portion into close contact, thereby stabilizing the accommodation case.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If an engagement piece of a holding bracket is inserted into a groove of a fitting portion provided in the accommodation case, then the accommodation case can be fixed to the steering column, but sufficient holding strength cannot be secured
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the engagement mechanism from a groove-insertion type to a protrusion-crushing type. The fitting portion is designed with a crushing margin that allows the engagement protrusions to crush and deform the fitting portion, creating a positive lock that provides sufficient holding strength and prevents displacement or tilting of the accommodation case.
2Strength
If a mounting bracket or screw fixation is used to fix the accommodation case to the steering column, then the accommodation case can be secured, but a fastening portion for fastening a screw to the steering column must be formed
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the holding bracket and screw fixation components from the system. Instead of using a separate mounting bracket or screws, the accommodation case itself is designed with an insertion portion that directly engages with engagement protrusions on the steering column, eliminating the need for additional fastening portions and components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the accommodation case with the fastening mechanism. The insertion portion of the accommodation case is integrated with the engagement protrusions, combining the housing function and the fastening function into a single unified structure, thereby simplifying the overall device.
3Strength
If the insertion portion is inserted between the engagement protrusions, then the fitting portion can be crushed to secure the accommodation case, but the fitting portion must have a crushing margin which requires precise manufacturing
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the material state of the fitting portion from rigid to deformable during the engagement process. The crushing margin is designed to allow controlled plastic deformation of the fitting portion when crushed by the engagement protrusions, which compensates for tolerance variations and reduces the need for extremely precise manufacturing.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration effectively suppresses displacement and tilting of the accommodation case, ensuring a more stable fixation to the steering column with a simple and robust design.
Implementation Method 1
the insertion portion is provided with a fitting portion having a crushing margin which is crushed by the engagement protrusions when the insertion portion is inserted between the engagement protrusions
Data Source
AI summary
A steering apparatus includes: a steering column that rotatably supports a steering shaft; and a controller provided with an accommodation case fixed to an outer peripheral surface of the steering column, in which a pair of engagement protrusions, which face each other, are provided on the outer peripheral surface of the steering column, an insertion portion is provided in the accommodation case to be inserted between the engagement protrusions, and the insertion portion is provided with a fitting portion having a crushing margin which is crushed by the engagement protrusions when the insertion portion is inserted between the engagement protrusions.